Lewandowski’s criticism does FC Bayern good

Commentary Munich – The Spiegel interview with Robert Lewandowski is making waves. This can lead to a lot of positive things. The SPORT1 commentary by editor-in-chief Digital Ivo Hrstic. The season is barely a month old – and FC Bayern is already putting a lot of pressure on the kettle. Not so much because of the away defeat with the strong Hoffenheimers, but because of statements by Robert Lewandowski in an interview with the Spiegel. The hectic reactions of Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Uli Hoeneß and many other experts illustrate the explosive nature of these statements, as we are all looking forward to hearing from mature players, so Robert Lewandowski must be allowed to put his finger in the sore spot, as did Philipp Lahm in 2009. After Lahm and Xabi Alonso’s career ends, Lewandowski has reached the top of the team hierarchy with Mats Hummels and Manuel Neuer. It is also his right to voice criticism loudly and clearly, and it is always tricky to do so in public – but often more effective and powerful. Especially if you are not heard enough internally. If Lewandowski had had his interview edited by the media department of the club as usual, the critical passages on Bavaria’s transfer policy (“Bavaria must come up with something”) and the controversial trip to Asia (“The many test games won’t get me anywhere”) would certainly not have appeared. His ambition drives him to realise that success in the Champions League is becoming increasingly difficult under the current circumstances, and in the emotional debate it is only important that FC Bayern Bayern continue to present itself as a unit. At the moment, public debate is mainly taking place, which is always a sign of a disturbed internal communication. The fact that Uli Hoeneß puts Karl-Heinz Rummenigge’s statements in public terms into perspective and plays them down is documented by an incipient split between the two alphabet players, even though the upheavals in the run-up to the Champions League kick-off are not yet clear. Already against Anderlecht I believe in a strong, short-term reaction from Lewandowski and the team. In the medium term, the strategy discussion can lead to a process of self-discovery, culminating in an even stronger FC Bayern Bayern.